Fortuna Sittard vs Almere City FC Match Recap - Dec 17, 2025

Almere City FC Stuns Fortuna Sittard with Late Surge in KNVB Beker Thriller

Almere City FC's resilience shone through as they edged past Fortuna Sittard 3-2 in a gripping KNVB Beker clash, showcasing their ability to capitalize on late-game opportunities. This victory marks a continuation of Almere's upward trajectory, while Fortuna's struggles deepen, raising questions about their season.

Almere's recent form has been nothing short of impressive, with three consecutive wins leading into this match. The standout performer has been Julian Rijkhoff, who scored again today, adding to his growing reputation as a clutch player. His ability to find the net consistently has been pivotal for Almere, especially in high-pressure situations. The team's attacking prowess was evident as they managed 13 total shots against Fortuna, reflecting their offensive strategy that has evolved into a potent weapon.

Fortuna Sittard's recent performances have been marred by inconsistency and a lack of finishing quality. Despite dominating possession in their last few matches, including a staggering 61% against PEC Zwolle, they have struggled to convert that control into goals. Their inability to translate possession into meaningful chances was evident again today, as they fell victim to Almere's counterattacks. The xG figures from their previous outings highlight this issue; against Ajax, they created an xG of 2.18 but conceded three goals, illustrating a troubling trend of defensive lapses.

The match saw Édouard Michut receive a red card in the 58th minute, compounding Fortuna's woes. Playing with ten men against a confident Almere side proved detrimental, as they were unable to maintain their earlier momentum. This disciplinary issue has been a recurring theme for Fortuna, averaging nearly three yellow cards per match in their last five outings. Such lapses in discipline not only affect game dynamics but also reflect deeper issues within the squad regarding composure under pressure.

Almere's tactical approach was effective, with a solid defensive structure allowing them to absorb pressure before launching quick counterattacks. Their pass accuracy of 87% compared to Fortuna's 82% indicates a more efficient use of possession, allowing them to create clear-cut chances. The midfield duo of Milan de Haan and Job Kalisvaart played crucial roles in transitioning the ball from defense to attack, facilitating Almere's offensive efforts.

Fortuna's reliance on individual brilliance from players like Kaj Sierhuis has not been enough to secure results lately. Despite scoring today, Sierhuis has often found himself isolated due to a lack of cohesive support from the midfield. This isolation has stifled Fortuna's attacking potential, making it easier for opponents to defend against them. The contrast between Sierhuis's efforts and the overall team performance underscores the need for a more collective approach moving forward.

Almere's victory not only boosts their confidence but also positions them favorably in the knockout stage of the KNVB Beker. Their ability to score late goals has become a hallmark of their recent form, suggesting a team that thrives under pressure. The contributions from players like Emanuel Poku and Olivier De Nijs, who both played pivotal roles in today's match, highlight the depth and versatility within Almere's squad.

Fortuna Sittard must now reassess their strategy as they face mounting pressure in both cup and league competitions. With only one win in their last five matches and a concerning trend of defensive errors, they need to find solutions quickly. The upcoming fixtures will be critical for them to regain momentum and restore confidence among players and fans alike.

The narrative surrounding this match extends beyond just the scoreline; it encapsulates the contrasting fortunes of both teams. Almere City FC is riding high on confidence and form, while Fortuna Sittard grapples with self-doubt and inconsistency. As the season progresses, these storylines will continue to evolve, shaping the trajectories of both clubs in their respective campaigns.